Butterfly observers across California reported there are fewer monarchs migrating this year compared to past years.

Interestingly, everyone with a yard has the power to increase monarch populations and help these butterflies thrive, Natural Bridges State Beach monarch expert Martha Nitzberg said.

Planting milkweed, even a small patch, makes a difference because it gives more caterpillars a food source and comfortable home, Nitzberg said.

"This is a very picky animal. As a caterpillar it only eats one thing in the whole world, which is the milkweed," Nitzberg said. "In people's yards, they have the power to plant milkweed, and really help us with our numbers (of butterflies)."